Optical Imaging Device with Folded Axis for High-Speed Code Reading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Laser-based scanning devices face limitations due to regulations on laser output power, which restrict their distance and field of view, and suffer from wear and tear from moving parts, while camera-based systems have insufficient scan rates for quick code reading, especially when objects are moving at high speeds.
Innovation Solution
The development of optical imaging devices that utilize an area sensor, a lens, and reflective surfaces to fold the optical axis, allowing for a higher scan rate and reduced mounting space, with illumination devices and filters to enhance image quality and reduce reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If laser output power is increased to extend distance and field of view, then scanning capability is improved, but regulatory compliance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scanning function into two independent components: a fixed laser line projector that defines the scanning plane, and a rotating scanner that performs the actual scanning within that plane. This segmentation allows the laser power to be kept low for safety compliance while maintaining effective scanning capability through the mechanical scanning component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a fixed laser line as an intermediary element that prepares the scanning environment by illuminating the target area, allowing the main scanning function to be performed by a low-power rotating scanner. This intermediary laser line enables the system to overcome distance and field of view limitations without requiring high power from the scanning laser itself.
2Productivity
If rotating or vibrating mirrors are used to generate moving spot, then scanning functionality is improved, but device reliability deteriorates due to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotating scanner with a polygonal mirror or similar dynamic scanning element that can be precisely controlled. This dynamic approach allows for high-speed scanning while maintaining reliability through controlled rotation at constant speeds, reducing mechanical stress and wear compared to vibrating mechanisms.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If camera-based systems are used to avoid laser limitations, then safety compliance is improved, but scan rate deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of laser-based systems (high scan rate, clear reading area definition) with camera-based systems (safety compliance, no moving parts in the imaging path) by using a fixed laser line for illumination and a camera sensor for detection, eliminating the need for moving mirrors in the imaging path while maintaining high scanning speeds through electronic shuttering and processing.
4Speed
If opening angle is increased to match laser scanner FOV, then field of view is improved, but mounting distance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a fixed laser line to define the scanning plane, effectively adding a spatial dimension reference that allows the camera to be positioned closer to the target while maintaining adequate field of view. The laser line serves as a reference plane that extends the effective viewing distance without requiring the camera to be mounted far away.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables faster and more reliable code reading with increased scanning rates and reduced space requirements, overcoming the limitations of both laser and camera-based systems by improving the scanning speed and accuracy while maintaining resolution.
Implementation Method 1
The lens has an imaging path along an optical axis
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of reflective surfaces are configured to fold the optical axis
Implementation Method 3
The plurality of illumination devices are configured to transmit an illumination pattern by producing an illumination path along the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to optical imaging devices and methods for reading optical codes. The image device comprises a sensor, a lens, a plurality of illumination devices, and a plurality of reflective surfaces. The sensor is configured to sense with a predetermined number of lines of pixels, where the predetermined lines of pixels are arranged in a predetermined position. The lens has an imaging path along an optical axis. The plurality of illumination devices are configured to transmit an illumination pattern along the optical axis, and the plurality of reflective surfaces are configured to fold the optical axis.